The Origins of Human Culture

3 credits · Undergraduate

(3 hrs Lecture) Looking at developments in the Old World, this course examines the two million year period from the first appearance of human culture to the agricultural revolution some twelve thousand years ago. It emphasizes the increase in cultural complexity and specialization over time, and the way that culture has permitted humans to adapt to their environment. As well as discussing the general nature of the prehistoric record, the course examines such general questions as the origins of cultural behaviour, the ecology and chronology of the Pleistocene period, demographic evolution and reconstruction, and the relationship between cultural and biological evolution. Additional in-depth work is required to receive credit at the 4000 level. Cross-listed: BANT-3206(3), ANTH/BANT-4206(3). Restrictions: Students may not hold credit for this course and ANTH-4206 | BANT-3206 | BANT-4206. Requisite Courses: ANTH-2200 or permission of the instructor [prerequisite(s)].